A Possible Machado Alternative Has Emerged

In case you missed it, Manny Machado is on his way to the Bronx for his interview on Wednesday, read more HERE. Yeah, I am calling it an interview. He’s got a lot of explaining to do with  his “Johnny Hustle” comment and he’s going to have to convince the Yankees that he isn’t the dirty player some perceive him to be.

I’m glad the Yankees aren’t blindsided by their intrigue with Machado. He’s a shiny new toy many teams would like to have, but they have to have more than just a “Plan A” on board. The Yankees shouldn’t be caught with their pants down if Machado doesn’t sign with us. I’m glad there is talk of a “Plan B” even if it isn’t as flashy and that plan could be Freddy Galvis, maybe.

According to the New York Post HERE, the Yankees could make a run for Galvis but they aren’t the only interested suitors. He has a lot of attributes that the Yankees could benefit from while they wait for Didi Gregorius to return sometime between June and August. He is versatile, he can play second, shortstop or third base but the Yankees are likely drawn to his 655 games played at shortstop. He’s a good defensive infielder and he’s also a switch hitter with some pop in his bat. He’s got some nice positives there….but there is one area of concern to consider…

Galvis doesn’t fit the Yankees ideal mold for a hitter with his career on base percentage of .290. No player is perfect, right? But is that enough of a concern that the Yankees decide to look at other “Plan B” alternatives? Maybe not. There are other candidates out there, namely Alcides Escobar and Adeiny Hechavarria but they finish first and second respectively for worst OPS amongst active players.

Adding Galvis to play shortstop until Didi comes back would strengthen the infield. This should continue to be an important element for the Yankees until Didi returns, especially with the defensive concerns they have with Miguel Andujar at third base. Considering the alternatives to Machado, Galvis may be the best option.

Some of Yankeeland is “all-in” for Machado and let’s face it….no other free agent comes close to his appeal. Whether you are in on Machado or Galvis or neither, the Yankees should continue to be smart and look at this from all possible angles. I guess we will know more about any Machado plans or “Plan B’s” after Wednesday.

Stay tuned.

–Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa
BYB Managing Editor
Twitter: @nyprincessj